Consumer Reports gives guidance on when to replace an appliance

Fix It or Replace It?
Daily Real Estate News April 11, 2007

The May 2007 issue of Consumer Reports offers consumers a timeline to determine when it’s time to say goodbye to old appliances that aren’t operating properly. The magazine took into account age, typical repair and replacement costs, and improvements that have been made in newer models.The following list shows the age when it’s more sensible to replace an appliance rather than fix it:
6 years: dishwashers, over-the-range microwaves, and top-freezer refrigerators

7 years: clothes dryers and top-loader washers

8 years: Bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators, electric or gas ranges, electric wall ovens, and front-loader washers

Source: Consumer Reports (04/10/07)